RCI India Magazine Jan-Jun 2021 Edition

SUMMER 2021

An Easygoing Holiday IGATPURI, MAHARASHTRA

Chal Yaar Let’s Go To Periyar

THE REJUVENATING FORESTS OF PERIYAR NATIONAL PARK & WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

UNEXPLORED INDIAN DESTINATIONS

is now

Karjat – An Escape Into Nature | pg. 13

say hello to

FLIGHTS. CRUISES. HOTELS. ACTIVITIES. BOOK ’EM ALL NOW AT RCI.COM

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RCI.com Never miss out on a great deal Log into your Account on RCI.com and check for ‘My Offers’ tab on the top right of the Home Page to instantly see what exclusive offers and deals are available.

EDITOR’S NOTE It’s good to chat The Live Chat feature on RCI.com is a convenient function that enables you to chat with a RCI Travel Guide. Our Guides are trained to help with any queries. The service is available Monday to Saturday, 9am-6pm.

Follow us around the world Follow RCI’s social media pages.

Check out the various new holiday destinations, exciting contests, deals and other tips and news updates from the world of RCI. facebook.com/rciindiavacations

SUMMER 2021

DIFFICULT ROADS OFTEN LEAD TO BEAUTIFUL DESTINATIONS. This sums up the year gone by and the one we are in right now. While 2020 turned out differently than we imagined, 2021 is brimming with hope. The arrival of Covid Vaccine is certainly a confidence boost for travellers. We’ve good news that many of our affiliate resorts have also started to welcome guests. I could not have dreamed of a better start to this New Year.

At RCI, we’ve always strived to reinvent and bring value to our members. We’ve transformed ourselves into a Global Travel Network offering a wide range of travel solutions. Now you can book accommodation at over 600,000 hotels across the globe–Manhattan, Vatican, Paris, you name it. RCI.com has now become the one-stop for all your travel needs. You can book flights, cruise, car rentals and activities–all in one place at member preferential pricing. In other words, there’s no better time to be a RCI member. Go ahead, take advantage of the new member benefits.

We’re also excited to bring you a newer avatar of the magazine, now simply called the RCI Magazine. With a fresh and clean look, new sections such as Culture, Dining, Feature, Travel, and Member, your favourite magazine has now become even more appealing. We hope the stories we’ve put together will inspire you to go on your next big adventure.

Happy and safe travels.

Silvana Hernandez

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HELLO TRAVELLERS A

lot has changed since the previous edition of our magazine: RCI India members have started to travel with a renewed enthusiasm; many of our resorts across India are booked to capacity–an indication that we are on the path of good times again. Let’s get back to holidaying again and make up for the opportunities we missed.

To make your holiday booking experience delightful, we have introduced some new features on RCI.com. Now plan your micro trips or Split-Week Vacations with ease using Radius Search–a feature that enables you to find resorts that are within a 600 km radius. We understand that your travel plans can change at any time.

Hence, we have introduced Enhanced Exchange Protection, a service that helps protect your holiday in case of a cancellation. In other words, now you can plan your holidays confidently.

As always, we are constantly on the lookout for the best resorts and destinations to bring variety and freshness to your holidays. In this edition, you will find three new resorts in Thekkady, Madikeri, and Igatpuri. I urge you to explore all of them at your leisure. Now with RCI Hotels you can also book accommodation in almost all major cities across the globe.

Finally, if you have any comments or suggestions regarding our services, we’d love to hear from you. Please write to us at rci@rciindia.com.

Rishi Verma Head of India Subcontinent, RCI

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SUMMER 2021

Contents 3

Editor’s Note

CULTURE

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An Easygoing Holiday Igatpuri, Maharashtra

DINING

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Local Food Cultures Worth Travelling For

FEATURE

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Karjat – An Escape Into Nature

TRAVEL

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Handpicked Trekking Spots

By RCI

MEMBERS

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A Week in Virajpet Chal Yaar Let’s Go To Periyar

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New Affiliation

30 Discovering the American East Coast

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Culture

NATURE THERAPY Explore Igatpuri, a town and hill station in the Western Ghat mountains of Maharashtra.

The beauty of this region multiplies during monsoon. Within driving distance from Mumbai and Pune, Igatpuri is the perfect escape for a digital detox.

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AN EASYGOING HOLIDAY

Igatpuri, Maharashtra

Igatpuri has long been the pilgrimage destination for those who long to find peace and calm. Here is where the Dhamma Centre for meditation teaches the art of Vipassana, the once lost art of Buddhist meditation first taught by Gautama Buddha. Igatpuri is also known as India’s Switzerland. Serenity envelops every nook and corner of this green and hilly town. Even if you are not headed for the meditation centre, you still can stumble upon peace and calm in this quaint town.

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Igatpuri is the perfect destination for nature lovers with many sights to see and activities to indulge in.

Kalsubai Peak Kalsubai peak is the highest peak in Maharashtra and offers a very picturesque view of the Sahyadris.

A trek to the peak is said to be challenging, fun-filled, and offers a panoramic view of several other mountain ranges. For the truly adventurous, the night trek is worth checking out.

Tringalwadi Fort

Myanmar Gate is located at the entrance of the meditation centre.

The ornate golden structure set against the majestic mountains is a sight to behold.

Camel Valley Camel Valley is a great place to visit from where you can get an awesome view of the waterfall. The fog makes the place look romantic and heavenly at the same time. This valley is one of the best-kept secrets of the town and gets its name from the rocky cliff that looks like a head of a camel.

Rainforest Resort

Tringalwadi Fort offers a scenic view of the Tringalwadi Lake, the Kalsubai, and Kulang mountain ranges. The fort and its surrounding areas will appeal both to history buffs and nature enthusiasts.

Dhamma Giri Meditation Centre

Rainforest Resort is located in one of the most peaceful and serene locations of Igatpuri. Unwind yourself in the resort overlooking the mountains of Igatpuri. There is much you do at Rainforest Resort. With its 40 acres of wooded grounds, it’s a destination in itself.

Getting there: By road: 121 km from Mumbai and 245 km from Pune.

Nearest railway station: Nashik - 40 km.

Nearest airport: Mumbai - 120 km.

This iconic place offers Vipassana, a meditation course 2500 years old.

The building is very beautiful and offers an awesome view. The popular

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Dining

TREAT FOR THE TASTE BUDS India’s food culture needs no introduction where every state has its own specialties. Take a trip to your nearest RCI resort and explore the local favourite. Here, we bring you some of the popular delicacies from across India.

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LOCAL FOOD CULTURES WORTH TRAVELLING FOR Kolkata Foodies have a lot to explore in Kokata’s streets. From sweets that melt in your mouth to the best Kathi Rolls that would leave a lingering taste in your mouth, this city has it all. When in Kolkata, you should never miss the authentic Chinese food at China Town, and Phuchka, Mughlai Paratha, and Cutlets from the narrow streets of North Kolkata.

Mumbai In Mumbai, start with the chaat, a collection of snacks that marries the crunchy and soft textures of puffed rice and crackers with the sweet, tart flavours of chutneys. Then there’s the pav bhaji, a spiced mixed vegetable concoction, slathered with butter and drizzled with lemon juice, that you’ve got to grab with the toasted buns served on the side.

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Hyderabad Known as the ‘City of Nizams’, this city is a melting pot of Turkish, Mughlai, and Andhra cultures. In fact, the local cuisine mostly consists of rice, meat, and spices. The best example is the internationally famed Hyderabadi ‘Dum Biryani’ which is full of spicy flavors. You can also binge on street-side local delicacies such as tootak and kheema-samosa. The one food item that would never disappoint you is the world famous “Hyderabadi Dum Biryani”.

Kerala Surrounded by the sea, Kerala is home to numerous lip-smacking dishes prepared out of seafood, some of which include mussels, crab, tiger prawns, king prawns, oysters, sardines, mackerel, tuna and gorgeous red lobsters. One just cannot stop salivating when walking the streets of Kerala. Inspired by a fusion of Malabari, French, and Arabian influences and enhanced with a touch of Kerala’s unique culture, each dish in the state is an experience in itself that will leave you asking for more.

Rajasthan Rajasthani cuisine is rich, colourful and unique just like its culture. Milk, lots of clarified butter (ghee) and local spices are the prerequisites of many local dishes. From tangy veggie curries & spicy meats to yummy desserts, food of Rajasthan is for all. Dal Bati Churma is a hot favourite not only amongst the native people but also among the tourists. The lip-smacking dish comprises of a sumptuous combination of baked bati, dipped in ghee, panchmel or panchkuti dal, and jaggery mixed churma.

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IT’S TIME FOR GOA Karma Royal Palms, Goa.

Karma Royal Palms, designed in an elegant colonial style, features landscaped gardens that give the resort its name. Just a few minutes’ stroll from the silver sands of Benaulim Beach, this luxurious resort is the perfect place to ease yourself into the laid-back Goan way of life. The resort features a selection of studios, one and two-bedroom apartments, and a range of amenities to help you have that well-deserved holiday. Come over, discover the joys of Goan culture at Karma Royal Palms.

To book your holiday, call your RCI Travel Guide now at: 1.800.419.2131

GOA | KERALA | JAIPUR | HIMACHAL PRADESH | UTTARAKHAND

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Feature

THE HILLS ARE CALLING Be it a short weekend trip or a weeklong break, Karjat perfectly fits the bill. This secluded hill station seems as if taken right out of a storybook with enchanting hills, dense fogs, and plenty of peace and quiet. Come over for a refreshing holiday.

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GET MORE OPTIONS WITH COMPLIMENTARY

UPGRADES & CHANGES Upgrade to RCI Platinum Membership and enjoy many valuable benefits, in addition to those which you already receive as a RCI member.

PLATINUM MEMBERSHIP FEE 1 Year r4,364

2 Years r7,457

3 Years r10,423

4 Years r13,220

5 Years r15,381

*RCI Platinum® membership and benefits are subject to terms and conditions. Platinum membership benefits can be withdrawn without prior notice. Please call the RCI member helpline for details. RCI reserves the right to modify/withdraw Platinum membership/Platinum benefits without prior notice. Primary membership will be aligned with the Platinum membership validity with additional fees on prorata basis.

RCI Member Helpline Toll-Free (all India): 1.800.419.2131 Website: RCI.com 14

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E S CA P E I N T O N AT U R E

KARJAT SUMMER 2021

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F YOU HAVE BEEN LONGING FOR A TRIP AND weren’t able to take one either due to lockdown or your busy schedule, we have a solution for you. Karjat, 62 km from Mumbai, is a dreamland where one can indulge in different activities and enjoy the gifts of nature. The destination is also popular because it connects Mumbai and Pune.

Karjat has a lot to offer for tourists. Ulhas Valley Waterfalls, Kondeshwar Temple, Kondana Caves, Sondai, Songiri and Bhimgad Fort are some of them.

The prime highlight being the Ulhas Valley Waterfalls. It is magnificent and has perfect spots for a spectacular viewing.

During monsoon this place is a heaven with lush greenery all around, the waterfalls in its full glory and cool weather makes it a perfect place to relax and unwind.

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KONDANA CAVES Excavated in the first century BC this is a group of 16 caves and were discovered by Vishnu Shastri in the 19th century. The two most popular caves; Chaitya and Vihara consist of sculptures that will take you back in time. Standing inside the caves and seeing the waterfall in front of you is a sight to behold.

KONDESHWAR TEMPLE A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by many smaller shrines. The architecture of the temple is something to look out for. During monsoon one has to be careful to visit this place as it becomes slippery and dangerous.

TREK, TO BELIEVE. Taking a trek to Karjat is the best way to experience it. There are trails for people to follow and during monsoon you will want to stay here forever. A trek to one of the two forts, Sondal and Songri is an experience in itself.

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RCI Resort in Karjat: Sanskruti Suites & Resorts Located at equidistance from Mumbai and Pune, the resort offers a great weekend getaway. The resort has luxury villas, studio suites and terrace suites for stay and is backed with amenities like swimming pool, jacuzzi, massage room, sports facilities, restaurant and coffee shop.

EXPERIENCE IT WITH YOUR PET Now you don’t have to worry about your pet being at home when you’re on holiday. The resort allows you to bring along your pet and make it feel at home while you enjoy the scenic beauty of Karjat.

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Travel

GET SET, TREK Trekking is fast becoming a new hobby for Indians. Here are top picks for trekking from across the country. These destinations offer the best of views and an adventure that will refresh your mind, body, and soul.

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FROM THE FOOTHILLS OF HIMALAYAS TO THE WILDERNESS OF KERALA Explore some of the best trekking spots you can discover with RCI. Trekking is a transformative activity that refreshes the mind and body. It is known to be addictive and a healthy addiction at that. There is no better way to experience the beauty of nature than through this soft-adventure sport. You can experience the flowers, the trees and a whole host of sights that otherwise remain hidden. Besides, being on foot affords you the luxury of taking in the beauty of these spectacular destinations at your own set pace.

Travel

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We have put together a collection of trekking places that will bring you joy as you have never experienced before. With RCI offering stay options in all of the below destinations, go ahead and plan your trip.

Kanha MADHYA PRADESH

Kanha located in Madhya Pradesh has one of the largest national parks, the Kanha National Park and Tiger Reserve. Trekking in Kanha is a journey into the wild. With over 350 species of birds and fauna, this place offers spectacular views of the sunset and a dense forest to discover the untouched bounties of nature. Kanha is truly a trekker’s paradise. You can perfect this holiday with RCI, by staying at Club Mahindra, Kanha which is located in the wilderness. Guests can enjoy a family holiday that is designed to bring everyone in your family a little closer to Mother Nature. Additionally, you can opt for Sterling Kanha which is located amidst the woods and offers a beautifully designed outdoor swimming pool.

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Dharamshala HIMACHAL PRADESH

Mussoorie, Dehradun UTTARAKHAND

Mussoorie needs no introduction. This fabled town that looks down on the Doon Valley has long been the go-to recreation spot for the well-heeled. Today it is not just a tourist destination, it’s also a haven for the serious trekker. From Mussorrie, you can see the mesmerising Himalayan range spread out like a white necklace constructed of snowpeaked mountains inviting you to a secret rendezvous. Captivated, you are bound to seek out one of many trails spread across various parts of this land that sits in the lap of the Himalayas. Through hillsides blooming with flowers and rivers and through woods that embrace you from all sides, Mussoorie is truly a paradise for the intrepid trekker. During your trip to Mussoorie, choose to stay with an amazing offering by RCI, Club Mahindra Mussoorie which is located on the slopes of Gun Hill, the highest point in Mussoorie and offers a panoramic view of the Doon valley.

You can also opt for, Sterling Mussoorie which is one of the best-located resorts in Mussoorie. Set amidst the mountains, you can literally feel the clouds from this resort. The resort provides short and long treks with great views of the Himalayas.

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Dharamshala has been for many years a place visited by people from all over the world.

For spiritual reasons and even as a holiday destination because of its beautiful views and location. But at the heart of it, Dharamshala is also a gateway to trekkers who want to explore the Dhauladhar range, the upper Ravi Valley and the Chamba district. Dense forests filled with pine and oak trees, spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, and the glorious views of the Dhauladhar ranges beckon the avid trekker. RCI offers three beautiful properties here. You can choose to stay at the Karma Exotica Dharamshala, which is located on top of the cedar-forested mountains, with fine views of the snowcapped mountains all around and a carpet of tea gardens below.

Club Mahindra Dharamshala and Sterling Dharamshala located on the vicinity of the Dauladhar range offer a peaceful holiday with some of the most scenic views of the mountains. Try the Triund Trek, a 9 km trek in the mighty Dauladhar range of the Himalayas which offers views of the Moon Peak and Indrahar Pass.

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Munnar KERALA

Munnar is the atypical holiday destination in Kerala. For those used to backwater cruises and beach holiday that Kerala offers in plenty, this is a welcome change. Not too far from Cochin, the hilly ranges of Munnar are spread out with lush green tea plantations that offer spectacular views of the valley below. The misty weather and mildly cold temperatures are perfect for trekking into the jungles that surround Munnar. Trekking here is an experience different from trekking in other parts of India. So, don’t miss this one out. You can perfect this vacation with RCI, by staying at Club Mahindra Munnar which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding tea estates, a picturesque lake, and the mistclad mountains. You can also opt for Sterling Munnar, which is located in the charming village of Chinnakanal. You can perfect this vacation with RCI, by staying at Club Mahindra Munnar, which offers two stunning resorts providing a panoramic view of the surrounding tea estates. You can also opt for Sterling Munnar, located in the charming village of Chinnakanal. Set amidst verdant woodlands and cardamom plantations, The Tall Trees, Munnar is another great option.

Manali HIMACHAL PRADESH

There is no place like Manali, people would say in the sixties. Manali today has evolved into one of the best places for snow trekking.

Start by trekking to Lama Dugh. It is a fairly short and easy trek that lasts about 3 hours.

But it’s worth it just for the views you get of Manali. The route is through a forest of spectacular deodar trees. There are also many other trekking routes and trails of varying difficulties to suit the trekking enthusiast in you. And once you finish your trekking holiday here, you are bound to say what others have been saying for years.

There’s no place like Manali. You can perfect this vacation with RCI, by staying at Sterling Manali, which is located in lush green terraced environs, cradled in the snow-capped Himalayan Mountains with rooms overlooking the mighty peaks and gorgeous valleys—both of which provide ample hiking opportunities.

Club Mahindra White Meadows, Manali located just 3 km from the Mall offers mesmerising views and an unparalleled holiday. For an experience of Manali’s oldworld charm set amidst modern amenities, head to the luxurious Banon Resorts.

Additionally, you can opt for Club Mahindra Manali which offers guests a spectacular view of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, apple orchards and pine forests, and grassy meadows filled with wildflowers. Guests can take in the magnificent scenery on horseback or on a hike or just soak up the sun and refresh themselves.

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Members

GET INSPIRED There’s nothing like hearing happy holiday stories from RCI members themselves. In the following pages, two of our members take us on a virtual tour to the destinations they visited.

Read on and get inspired to go on your next adventure.

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A WEEK IN

Virajpet RCI Member Dinesh Patel takes us on a visit to Virajpet as he narrates his family holiday experience.

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As the plains give way to the hills and the road begins to curve upwards, the wide vistas of forested slopes and valleys act as a soothing balm. We forgot about our long journey, as Virajpet welcomed us with its serene beauty.

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We stayed at Club Mahindra Virajpet for a weekend. I must say that the property is simply beautiful, sprawling across 30 acres of lush greenery.

We were welcomed with a special coffee-based drink sourced from the local coffee plantation. The hospitality and the warm reception, not to mention the flavour of that coffee, made me feel welcome in an instant. At the reception, they even had a musical band to entertain all the guests who had arrived. A great start indeed to a memorable holiday!

The highlights for us were the swimming pool, game zone, karaoke area, gymnasium, etc. The resort also has many activities to keep people of all ages engaged. We as a family especially had a lovely time in the swimming pool.

I can’t even begin to explain how delicious the food was. The resort’s Aroma Restaurant serves a great spread of veg and non-vegetarian food in a beautiful setting. The local delicacies are worth trying out.

Club Mahindra Virajpet puts the best of Virajpet at your fingertips, making your stay both relaxing and enjoyable. All in all, it was a pleasant stay.

We’d recommend it to anyone looking for a rejuvenating family holiday.

The rooms at the resort are elegantly furnished with modern amenities to make our stay relaxing and comfortable. We were impressed by the room cleanliness and bed decorations.

The housekeeping and service also set this resort apart.

We started our day with a steaming hot cup of freshly brewed coffee and then headed out to tour the coffee plantation. Here, you can learn about the coffee-making process and also sit for a coffee tasting session with the chef at The Coffee Lounge. In the mornings, we had our routine walk around the resort, which was a refreshing experience. The resort’s location is something everyone would appreciate. You can enjoy the lush greenery, the surrounding hills, and the scenic beauty without even stepping out.

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CHAL YAAR LET’S GO TO PERIYAR The Rejuvenating Forests of Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary A story by RCI Member, Suleman Merchant MD – an avid nature lover, photographer & traveller

T

he very sound of the word Thekkady conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice scented plantations. The Periyar forests of Thekkady are one of the finest wildlife reserves in India. Its unspoiled tropical forests, savannah grasslands and incredible wealth of animal and plant life make it a nature lover’s paradise. A true ‘home of the wild’. Spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns that nestle beautiful trails, ideal for treks and mountain walks.

The wilderness is truly healing, a therapy for the soul. It is one of the oldest tiger reserves in the country and the forests of Periyar are embellished by the presence of many endangered species including White Tigers. However, it is ironical that the Periyar Tiger Reserve, is actually more abundant with and famous for Elephants.

Winters (October to February) are by far the best time to visit Thekkady, as the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing. The monsoon (June to September) is another great time to visit Thekkady. This is one of the few national parks that remains open even during the monsoon season.

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Things to carry: Carry comfortable clothing, suitable for the jungle – dull muted colours, such as khaki; get well camouflaged.

Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, to keep shrubs and branches from tearing your skin; a great protection against insects too. Ensure you have comfortable walking shoes, with a good grip and cushioning and soft padded socks. Carry medication that you may require and some rub-on insect repellent to keep insects away. A raincoat would be a great asset too, since the weather can be unpredictable; along with a hat and sunscreen. Binoculars would aid viewing birds and other wildlife. Ensure your phone battery is fully charged (+power bank); this is the real jungle, not the concrete jungle we are accustomed to.

How to get there: Kochi and Madurai airports are both a 4 hour drive from Periyar National Park. The Park is barely a 20-minute drive from your Thekkady base in Kerala. For train aficionados, its 110 km from Kottayam Railway Station.

For car aficionados, Thekkady is situated approximately 18 km from Idukki wildlife sanctuary on the Kumily-Munnar state highway. It has multiple elegant RCI resorts.

RESORT ID: A963, Club Mahindra Thekkady RESORT ID: DR90, Sterling Thekkady

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The main attraction at this famous ecotourism destination is obviously the Periyar National Park, a protected area, located in the districts of Idukki and Pathanamthitta in Kerala, spread across an area of 777 sq. km of forest land, located high in the Cardamom and Pandalam Hills, of the southern Western Ghats. It is a repository of rare, endemic and endangered flora and fauna; and forms the major watershed of two important rivers of Kerala—the Periyar and the Pamba. This park is often addressed as either Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary or just Thekkady. The history of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park is closely related to the construction of the scenic Mullaperiyar Dam. The construction of the dam across the Periyar River led to the formation of Periyar Lake in the year 1895. Being located on the banks of River Periyar, this wildlife sanctuary offers some of the best wildlife sightings in India.

Boating in the Periyar National Park Lake. The best way to enjoy the sights, is from the edge of your seat on a boat. The location is amidst lushgreen jungles and this method is famous for the wildlife that can be seen in huge varieties.

For centuries, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady has been host to the most exquisite flora and fauna in the country and nature lovers throng to it in great numbers.

Famous for its rustic and refreshing climate, along with a bird’s eye view of a multitude of life forms, it is among the best tourist spots in God’s Own Country. These forests are something more than an abode for recreation. They are places where you can find some inspiration. The wilderness in the forests is the clearest path to the purity of our vast universe. Make the most of it!

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Plantations: Tea, cardamom, pepper and coffee plantations abound in the areas adjoining the Tiger Reserve. Murukkady, a famous Thekkady place to visit, is barely 4 km and is known for spices; coffee and cardamom gardening. This place cultivates more than twelve varieties of spices including clove, ginger, turmeric, vanilla and tea. The vanilla pods are a must-buy, just for their sheer fragrance.

To explore the wilderness of the Periyar Tiger Reserve tourists have many options: varying from boating to trekking. There are a few watchtowers inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve too, which are excellent for viewing wildlife.

Bamboo Rafting If you are a little more adventurous, then you can take a bamboo raft and row while the wildlife watches you; perplexed and amused.

This is a memorable day-long rafting cum trekking programme through the pristine waters and the rich forest of Periyar Tiger Reserve. Enjoy the serene and beautiful scenery with a backdrop of the mountains, lush green valleys and other picturesque landscapes. You get an opportunity to sight wildlife at close quarters. If you are lucky, you might get a chance to see large herds of elephants bathing on the lakeside.

Food God’s own country has its own amazing culinary delights. Do try the garlic dosa and many other local delicacies. While you are there, don’t forget to buy some absolutely fresh spices, vanilla pods and a vast array of ayurvedic medicines and oils, fresh off the farm. If in doubt, just take a look at the local women and their dense lustrous hair.

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DISCOVERING THE

American East Coast New York City–New Jersey–Orlando–Florida Keys Having explored the USA several times, Ravi Shetty, an RCI India Travel Guide, has some tips on discovering the East Coast.

With RCI now offering Hotels and Resorts, covering your dream circuit has become a breeze.

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New York City New York City, also called the Big Apple, is one of the liveliest and most visited cities in the world. And it’s worth spending two to three nights in the Big Apple. You can check into a hotel in Manhattan or Brooklyn, both near to where all the action is.

Put on comfortable shoes and get ready to roam the main sights of New York City. I’d recommend taking a Metro Card, which gives you an unlimited ride option. It’s a cheap and quick way to cover all the main NYC sights.

Some of the top sightseeing options are the Statue of Liberty, Madame Tussauds, the iconic Times Square, the towering Empire State Building and the popular hangout, Central Park. If you are into art, The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) and the Metropolitan Museum of Art are worth checking out.

One of New York’s architectural marvels is the Brooklyn Bridge.

Early mornings are perfect to visit the bridge when it’s less crowded and offers good photo ops. With an almost endless array of dining, shopping, and sightseeing, this trendsetting city lives up to its reputation.

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New Jersey Within driving distance from New York is New Jersey, with its fine natural attractions and 127 miles of beautiful beach. Jersey’s most popular attraction is the Atlantic City.

The beaches, casinos, and the popular boardwalk bring hordes of tourists to this resort city. As evening falls, Atlantic City puts on a carnivalesque look with its dining, shopping and entertainment scene coming alive.

Niagara Falls is another popular sight you can visit both from New York City and Jersey. Stay overnight at a hotel in Niagara Falls and return the next day. A road trip is recommended as it allows you to take in fabulous sights of New York State along the way.

Check out rental car services and bus tour options for your trip.

Orlando Fly into Orlando in Florida next, the fun capital. It’s no secret that Orlando is one of the top holiday destinations in the world, thanks to the yearround warm climate, family-friendly activities, and welcoming locals.

If there’s one thing Orlando has in abundance, it’s thrills. It is the theme park capital of the world, playing host to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, Legoland and several water parks - there’s also an exhilarating rollercoaster and a movie-themed ride. The great thing about the theme parks here is that even if being shot up in the air upside down at 60mph isn’t for you, there are plenty of other things to do in the parks.

Orlando is packed with things to do, so it all depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re a Disney lover there’s a lot for the whole family here, and for those who want all the relaxation of a beach holiday, an hour’s drive will take you to the popular Daytona Beach.

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Fort Lauderdale Another Florida attraction to be witnessed is Fort Lauderdale. Famous for its beaches, palm trees, and shopping, this place offers a relaxed holiday compared to its busy counterparts.

Port Everglades, the lively port city of Fort Lauderdale, is another popular place where you can watch cruise ships leaving for Caribbean and other destinations. Call it a day after visiting Las Olas Beach, famous for its lively boulevard, al fresco dining options, international art galleries and shopping options– a perfect place to spend a relaxing evening.

Florida Keys 120 miles off Florida is the Florida Keys, a stretch of tropical islands that makes for a perfect island getaway.

This is a hybrid space where North America and the Caribbean meet.

From art galleries and museums to snorkeling options, your trip can either be action-packed or relaxing.

Opt for a car rental from Miami and head on to the US 1 Highway covering 44 islands and 42 bridges. The 113 miles long journey to Key West is packed with breathtaking sights.

Here’s an interesting fact: from the southernmost point of Key West, Cuba is only 94 miles.

Getting there: Air India operates direct flights between major Indian metros and New York, making it convenient to explore the East Coast.

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NEW AFFILIATIONS

Sterling Thekkady Sterling Thekkady makes for an ideal getaway destination from the bustling city life. Nestled amidst Idukki’s charming mountains, it falls in close proximity to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve. The resort features 83 luxurious rooms and suites with mesmerising views of the Idduki hills. The closest airport is in Madurai, which is around 150 km away and Cochin 163 km. RESORT ID: DR90

Danta Resort, Madikeri Danta Resort, is set amidst lush green coffee estates and a stream around. The sound of birds chirping and a river flowing close to the resort sets up a perfect holiday mood when you stay here. Danta Resort offers 14 spacious and tastefully designed rooms with large balconies. Indulge in a host of indoor games and outdoor activities including a dip in our swimming pool. Lip-smacking food comes from our multicuisine restaurant. RESORT ID: DR88

Rainforest Resort, Igatpuri Igatpuri is 40 acres reclining hill station surrounded with the highest peaks in Sahyadri featuring rooms overlooking lush green landscape and forest. The resort is 7 km from Igatpuri Railway Station and 2 km from famous Tringalwadi Dam. The popular Daran River is 15 km away.

The Igatpuri Bus Station and the Igatpuri Railway Station 6 km away and the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is 135 km from Igatpuri. RESORT ID: RK32

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